“May I come in?” Mikhail asked.

“Yes, come in. It’s been a while, Mr. Mikhail. I’m sorry for not contacting you more often. I’ve been pretty busy as well…” I[1] answered.

“I should’ve visited you first… I’m terribly sorry,” he said.

“Have a seat,” I offered.

“Okay.”

“What would you like to drink? We have everything, so feel free to choose whatever you want,” I told him.

“Anything is fine with me. I’d like to drink whatever you recommend, sir,” he said.

“In that case… This one should be nice. This tea is made out of strawberries endemic in the north. It’s kind of sweet, but it’s not too sweet. I think you’ve already tasted this tea, but I recommend it nonetheless. I’m obsessed with this tea, and I’m sure you’ll like it,” I explained.

“I appreciate it,” he said.

“You don’t have to say that; you’re making me feel embarrassed here. Anyway, how are things? How have you been doing recently?” I asked.

“It’s the same every day. I’m sure it’s not that different from you, sir. I start the day by drinking either tea or coffee, and I use the remaining time reading either the newspaper or a book. Of course, that’s the only...